This article was written by the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR).
The Amanzimtoti Beach Superintendent, Jace Govender, finally captured the elusive seal, with the assistance of trained members of the KZN Stranding Network, this week.
The KZN Stranding Network and marine animal experts have been monitoring the movements of a young Cape fur seal that made itself at home in the surf at Amanzimtoti, on the upper south coast.
Experts thought he followed the sardine run, up the coast and then when they were no longer visible, he found himself needing to make another plan.
Unfortunately, his Plan B was less than ideal, as he saw what seemed like an endless supply of sardines connected to the end of the Toti fishermen’s’ lines.
Despite being hooked a number of times, he continued to steal the fishermen’s bait, and it became increasingly evident he needed urgent medical attention.
Soon after the young seal was admitted to uShaka Sea World’s rehabilitation facility, several hooks were safely removed from his mouth and back, before he was left to rest for the night.
The veterinary team administered long-acting antibiotics to cover risks associated with the hooks, as well as a painkiller. Unfortunately, a radiograph showed he has a hook lodged in his esophagus.
uShaka Sea World veterinarian, Dr Lampen would like the young seal to settle and regain its strength before further intervention. Thankfully he still has a good appetite.
At only two and a half years old and weighing a mere 17 kgs, he has a personality and attitude way bigger than one would imagine for such a tiny seal, so far from home.
It is impossible not to love him, and we are going to do everything in our power to help him. Although there is still much debate on a suitable name for such a cute seal, it looks as though the name Captain Hook might just stick.
We would like to thank everyone who showed concern when Captain was in the water, and to the brave Networkers who helped bring him to us. It is however important to note that in South Africa and Namibia, Cape fur seals have tested positive for rabies. This can pose a serious risk to people, and it is therefore dangerous for a member of public to go anywhere near seals on the beach. If one is bitten by a seal, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention and to request a rabies vaccine.
Picture: SAAMBR